Healthy Parenting Handbook with Katie Kimball

"I don't like fish."How many of us have a child, spouse, or self who says that?My guest today says that's off course - no one can accurately say they "don't like" "fish" - and I love her reasons!Whether you love fish or haven't learned to love it yet, this non-fishy interview all about the fish of the sea is a winner:Have you ever gotten to know your fisherman? Watch my surprise as I do for the first time...How to find the best fish for the biggest health benefitsWhy some fish are harder to cook well (and deliciously) than othersWhat to look for in a store or restaurant to make sure you're getting sustainable, healthy fishWhy ocean stewardship is of primary importance for fishermen and their familiesFind well-fished seafood with all the omega-3s at Sena Sea Seafood!Resources We Mention for Sourcing Sustainable FishGet Sena Sea Seafood on their websiteFind the best natural mineral sunscreen that's safe for the oceans!Follow Sena on Instagram When you sign up for Sena's email list, you'll get a free cookbook to expand your fish repertoire Shop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

My oldest struggled with eczema from time to time, but when our house presented us with a toxic mold issue, he really flared up.It was the worst we’d ever seen, and after 3 weeks of completely ditching gluten, dairy, and sugar (by his own choice and motivation), nothing had changed. It was heartbreaking!I can only imagine how tough it is for parents of toddlers with eczema who can’t even communicate their pain.My guest today digs DEEP into eczema and all the potential root causes, the importance of testing, and the wide variety of pathways to healing individual children might need.She says a lot of parents do research and get really really close to the answer their kids needs…and then get stuck. That’s where she comes in.Here is just a tiny preview of what we’ll touch on:“Parasites overgrow in the body when there is a toxic burden!”“Bowel movements are the primary elimination pathway in the body.”“If kids are not having a bowel movement daily, figure out WHY that’s happening!”“Mold impacts the way the brain functions and communicates with the GI tract.”“Elimination depends on pooping, liver function, kidney function.”“If kids have skin issues, it’s typically a sign that there’s a liver stagnation issue - like the body is pulling the emergency brake.”If your little darlings are struggling with eczema or other skin issues, or you know someone who needs this podcast, don’t hesitate to hit play or pass it on!Resources We Mentioned for Eczema in KidsDeidre's book: Toxic Infertility: Detoxification Solutions to Improve Natural Fertility: Amazon, BookshopGet to the root of eczemaHealing inflammation from the inside outFind Deidre onlineWork with her for pediatric GI healing and skin healthFollow her on social media: Instagram, Facebook, (her other Instagram focusing on infertility)Shop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

ADHD is not just an attention disorder; it's an executive functioning disorder.The myths abound!If you’ve always thought of kids with ADHD as those who struggle in school, think again.If you expect ADHD kids to have trouble focusing, wrong again.If you think kids with ADHD are destined to struggle more throughout life, Mike McLeod is here to tell you that ADHD is not a limitation, just a different path.The ADHD brain is truly different from neurotypical brains, although some truths apply to both groups, like:Children learn best through play and unstructured time.Outdoor play is vital for developing real-world skills.Boredom is essential for self-regulation and creativity.Cooking teaches kids self-sufficiency and life skills.Unstructured time is crucial for children's development.Parents should set high expectations for their children.Removing screens can reveal hidden talents in kids.Parents need to place more importance on chores & balancing structure and freedom.Parents of kids with or without ADHD need the information in this episode, but especially stuff like this:Screen time can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, but it does not cause ADHD.The ADHD brain struggles with self-regulation and motivation for NON-preferred tasks.Varied experiences are vital for skill development.Executive functions are crucial for success in life.I love Mike’s energy and expertise, like sitting at the feet of a master. What an honor to work with him both for this podcast and as a #LifeSkillsNow Season 4 camp leader! Resources We Mentioned for ADHD MythsInterviews I've done on ADHD: Does ADHD always mean medication? and Practical Solutions for ADHDCheck out four free life skills workshops now!Find Mike online: GrowNOW ADHDInstagram, FacebookShop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Emily’s stories are going to get your head nodding in empathy and connection - we’ve all been there with the kid who just will NOT put their shoes on, brush their teeth, or do as we ask!If you’ve ever felt the guilt after exploding all over your kids, those little beings you LOVE so much, you need this interview.We talk all about emotional regulation, how moms need to work on their own big emotions so that they can better help their kids, and how to raise emotionally healthy families. Today, we touch on:Motherhood is no joke! It’s way harder than it looks from the outside, especially when your own emotions get involved.In the heat of a meltdown, kids aren’t being “bad,” they’re stuck in their emotional brain, not their thinking brain.There’s no perfect time to work on emotional growth. Start where you are.Getting support isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom.Kids learn emotional regulation by watching us. Imperfect parenting still teaches powerful lessons when we’re honest and intentional.Raising critical thinkers and independent problem-solvers starts with slowing down, naming emotions, and solving problems with our kids.Resources We Mention for Emotional RegulationThe Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne BrysonThe kitchen is a good place to build social emotional skillsThe Explosive Child by Ross GreenFind Emily onlineFollow her on social media: Instagram, FacebookListen to her podcastEmily's free masterclass on Emotional Regulation for Neurodivergent KidsGet four free life skills classes now!Shop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

If you’ve ever passed kefir in the grocery store and wondered, “Is that stuff actually good for you?”—you’re not alone. In this episode, I talk with Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Kefir, who shares how this tangy, probiotic-rich drink became a lifeline for her immigrant family—and a powerful tool for mental and physical wellness.Julie dives into the science behind fermented foods, the gut-brain connection, and why kefir might be one of the most underrated health foods on your shelf. We also talk mom-to-mom about raising adventurous eaters, the role of dairy in women’s health, and the importance of modeling self-care for our kids.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why kefir supports gut health, immunity, and even mental healthHow fermented dairy reduces inflammation, and why that mattersWhat women should know before cutting dairy from their dietHow to introduce kids to kefir and other healthy foodsWhy kefir is 99% lactose-free (yes, even for sensitive stomachs)How food, family, and culture shape our health journeysPractical self-care tips for busy parentsWhether you're curious about the benefits of kefir or looking for real-life tips on raising healthy kids, this conversation will leave you inspired.Resources We Mention for a Healthy LifestyleInformation on Dr. Elie Metchnikoff's studies on fermented milk and kefir from 1904Read more about the effects of antibacterial everythingHere's a study on fermented milk and colon cancerA kid's perspective on going dairy-freeFind Lifeway onlineFollow Julie on social media: Instagram, LinkedInCheck out Julie's cookbook: The Kefir Cookbook: Amazon, Bookshop, eBookShop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

We may all think and process information differently, but it’s true that some diagnoses make parenting feel a lot more difficult on a day-to-day basis.You’ll receive a heavy dose of empathy and understanding from this interview, along with some very practical strategies to create an environment in which your children can thrive.Ginny and I talked about:How ND kids struggle with executive function, big emotions, and emotional regulation, but can often be gifted with exceptional creativity, intellect, and problem-solving abilities.Why “routines” include both structure and flexibilityWhy a growth mindset must be in your toolboxThe beauty of suffering, how to infuse challenges with meaningWhere to find role models with differently wired brains for your kids!Resources We Mention for Neurodivergent ParentingGinny uses Ellyn Satter's division of responsibilityGet my best tips for picky eaters hereGinny has a list of saints who had some type of neurodivergenceGet Ginny's booksBlink and We'll Miss It: Amazon, BookshopGod's Kintsugi: Amazon, BookshopFind Ginny online: Quirky Catholic Kids, GinnyKochis.comFollow her on InstagramGet four free life skills workshops now!Shop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

We tend to think of "eyesight" as just needing glasses or not. But what if I told you that vision is actually a brain function, and if our kids are struggling visually, it could be impacting their learning, attention, and even behavior?In our chat, Dr. B doesn’t just talk science — he gives us practical tips that any parent can use to support healthy vision for kids, especially in our screen-soaked world. He unpacks the sneaky signs of vision issues, why screen time isn’t just an eye problem, and what we can actually do about it.But here’s what might surprise you…Many children are misdiagnosed with attention issues when the root problem is vision-related.Eyesight and vision aren’t the same thing (and that distinction is life-changing).The rise in screen time is truly affecting how our kids’ eyes — and brains — develop.There’s a simple at-home test you can do to check for red flags in your child’s vision.Vision therapy is not just for kids with glasses — it’s for brains that need support.Outdoor time isn’t just "nice" — it’s necessary for strong visual development.Functional eye doctors approach vision differently, and it’s exactly what so many kids need.And yes, the 20-20-20 rule? It’s real, simple, and super helpful!We also talk blue light, digital performance glasses, and how to balance a tech-filled life without turning into a screen-time tyrant. 😉So if you’re ready to understand what’s really going on behind your child’s eyes — and empower yourself with tools to help them thrive — don’t miss this one.Resources We Mentioned for Healthy VisionTry out ScreenFit for your family (get a discount with code "KCRF")How vision problems can be misdiagnosed as ADHDHere is the directory of eye doctors Dr. B mentionedHere's my review of the best blue light glasses I've foundFind Dr. B onlineFollow him on social media: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTokShop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Raise your hand if you love money!But…raise your hand if you DON’T love figuring out what to DO with your money, spending too much money, or not having enough money?That’s Brad Nelson’s mission as Debt Free Dad - to help normal everyday people take control of their finances so they can live a happier less stressful life.We dig into a lot of practical and philosophical tips, including:First steps to get out of debtHow to STAY out of debt in the first placeLetting go of limiting beliefsCreating a “debt is bad” mindset - for the wrong kind of debtGetting more time freedom in your life – because time is the one thing we never get back!We dig into how to teach kids and teens about finances too: “We have to teach our kids what debt is and the risk it can have on your life and the choices you make…”Why financial health is a daily commitmentBrad is one of our valued #LifeSkillsNow Season 4 camp leaders, teaching teens and tweens about the real cost of “convenience” and what compound interest can do for our high school kids. It’s phenomenal! My own kids and other teen testers were blown away.Resources We Mention for Teaching Kids About DebtThe book Brad mentioned: Top Five Regrets of the DyingRocket Money can help you get rid of subscriptionsCheck out Brad's free video to help you reduce financial stressFind Brad onlineFollow him on social media: Facebook, TikTok, InstagramShop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Today I'm doing something completely new! It's a podcast swap! Here is an episode of the Mindful Mama Podcast with Hunter Clarke-Fields.It's the third of a three-part series so definitely go check that out when you're done with this one!Find Hunter OnlineFollow her on social media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube  Shop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!

Raise your hand if you’ve ever yelled or lost your cool as a parent.Keep that hand up if you thought you would never yell as a parent.I know, right?It’s the story of many who go on to be mindful or positive or grounded parenting experts. “I never thought I would…”Me neither!That means we need tools, and today’s guest will give you some powerful ones in the form of mindfulness for parents.Resources We Mention for Parenting Without YellingGet Hunter's books:Raising Good Humans: Amazon, BookshopRaising Good Humans Every Day: Amazon, BookshopRaising Good Humans Guided Journal: Amazon, BookshopMindful Mama MentorFacebook, Instagram, YouTubeHunter's free guide to repair the relationship after yellingHunter's "Stop Yelling Formula"Learn more about the lizard and monkey brain statesShop Perfect Supplements at https://kidscookrealfood.com/perfect! Kitchen Stewardship Kids Cook Real Food follow Katie on Instagram or Facebook Subscribe to the newsletter to get weekly updates YouTube shorts channel for HPH Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast Affiliate links used here. Thanks for supporting the Healthy Parenting Handbook!